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Antiquity and modernity vie for attention in Japan, whose monarchical and feudal history contrast sharply with its current pro-Western attitude and technological innovations. This juxtaposition, combined with a tradition-rich culture, complex and profound Buddhist and Shinto spiritual traditions and natural attractions, make Japan potentially appealing to travelers of varied interests.

Historic Landmarks

Of Japan's castles, the most arresting, says Frommer's, is the 17th century Himeji Castle (himeji-castle.gr.jp), known for its white walls. Matsumoto Castle (city.matsumoto.nagano.jp) has Japan's oldest keep. On the island of Okinawa, visit Shuri Castle Park (oki-park.jp/shurijo-park), which harbors ruins from the Ryukyuan culture that inhabited the region from the 12th to the 17th century. In Hiroshima stands the Hiroshima Peace Memorial (pcf.city.hiroshima.jp), the only building that remained standing after the atomic bomb explosion in August 1945.

Religious Sites

Religious sites are among Japan's top draws. Kyoto, the capital from the late-8th to the mid-19th century, has several famous Buddhist temples, including the Kiyomizu Temple (kiyomizudera.or.jp) and Sanjusangendo Hall (no website; 657, Kaimachi, Sanjusangendo, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-city, Kyoto; 075-561-0467). The latter is known for its 1,001 statues of the goddess Kannon. In Tokyo, the modern capital, there is the Sensoji Temple (senso-ji.jp), constructed in the 7th century to house a statue of the Kannon said to have been caught in the Sumida River. Japan's most lavish Shinto shrine is the 17th-century Toshogu Shrine (nikko-jp.org) in Nikko, which is adorned with gold leaf.

Cultural Experiences

One of Japan's signature experiences is lodging at a traditional inn, known as a ryokan, where rooms feature sliding paper walls, straw mats and Japanese versions of futons. Frommer's recommends the Hiiragiya Ryokan (hiiragiya.co.jp) in Kyoto, established in 1861, and the Iwaso Ryokan (iwaso.com) in Miyajima. Another quintessential Japanese tradition is the tea ceremony, a highly structured ritual that dates to the 16th century, which you can experience in tea houses throughout Japan. In Tokyo, sports aficionados will want to take in a sumo wrestling match at the Kokugikan arena (sumo.or.jp). Sumo, Japan's national sport, is a 1,500-year-old practice.

Cuisine

Avid eaters can indulge their palates in Japan, where the most luxurious dining experience is the kaiseki meal that consists of a series of dishes. The ingredients and presentations depend on the season. Also traditional, but far less fancy, are bento boxes, a lunch option that includes a combination of rice, pickles, fish or meat and vegetables. Daring foodies will want to try blowfish, known locally as fugu. Choose a government-licensed chef, since eating fugu that has been incorrectly prepared can be fatal.

Outdoor Activities

Among Japan's top athletic pursuits is climbing Mount Fuji, situated 62 miles southwest of Tokyo. At 12,355 feet, it is the country's tallest mountain. As many as 400,000 people climb Mount Fuji every year during the climbing season, which runs from July through Aug. 31. In addition, the coral reefs off Okinawa make the island one of the world's best places for scuba diving. In the winter, the Japanese Alps and the mountains of Tohoku and Hokkaido draw many skiers.